Via Ferrata de la Source de la Moselle (Bussang)

The Via Ferrata de la Source de la Moselle is a protected climbing route near the source of the Moselle river, off the D89 at Bussang in the southern Vosges of the Grand Est region of France. It lies about 170 km from Strasbourg, so it suits a full-day excursion or a stop on a longer Vosges trip. The route is about 850 m long and takes roughly 1 to 2 hours, following steel cables, rungs and ladders fixed to the rock face. Two loops of different difficulty are available, which allows beginners to choose the easier option while more confident climbers take the harder one. The activity is rated moderate: participants need basic fitness, a head for heights and the ability to hang on and climb for an hour or more, but no prior climbing experience is required for the easier loop. Access is from age 10 and a height of 1.30 m with equipment, and younger or smaller children should not attempt the route. Participants need a via ferrata set, helmet and harness; those without their own can join guided sessions, where the equipment is supplied. Gloves and sturdy shoes are advisable. Guided sessions are offered by Verticales Vosges, and the route itself is free to use; booking information is published at en.labresse.net/booking/via-ferrata.html. A guide gives a briefing on clipping and unclipping the lanyard at each anchor, resting positions and the rules for passing other climbers. Self-guided climbers must ensure they are competent with the equipment, and should not climb alone. In an emergency the route is reached from a road, and the European emergency number 112 connects to the mountain rescue services. The best season runs from May to October, once snow has gone and the rock is dry. Wet rock, thunderstorms and early-season cold should be avoided, since cables conduct lightning and slippery stone raises the risk of a fall.